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Tilicho Lake Trek
from $200–$500 per person
Duration
14 Days
Difficulty
HARD
Group size
12 people
Start point
Kathmandu
End point
Kathmandu
Accommodation
3-Star Hote, Tea Houses
Meals
Halal, Vegan
Overview
An adventurous high-altitude trek to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the world's highest glacial lakes, nestled in the shadow of the Annapurna massif. This trek combines classic Annapurna Circuit trails with a challenging detour to a breathtaking turquoise alpine lake.
Highlights
Trek to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world --> Cross the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416m --> Stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak --> Walk through diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine deserts --> Experience authentic Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali culture --> Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, revered by Hindus and Buddhists --> Traverse the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Valley --> Explore the medieval village of Manang
Itinerary
- Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After freshening up, meet your trekking guide for a pre-trip briefing about the trek. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine in the evening.1 Night/ 1 DayDinnerHotel in Kathmandu - Day 2
Drive Kathmandu to Chame (2,670m)
Take an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Chame via Besisahar. The journey follows the Marsyangdi River, offering scenic views of terraced farms, villages, and mountains. The last stretch is a bumpy jeep ride through rugged terrain into the Manang district.9-10 hours230 Km1,270mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Chame - Day 3
Trek Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
Begin your trek through pine and fir forests along the Marsyangdi River. Pass through the villages of Bhratang and view the dramatic curved rock face of Paungda Danda. Continue to Upper Pisang, where you'll get your first stunning views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.5-6 hours15 Km630mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Upper Pisang - Day 4
Trek Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m)
Today's trek takes the upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna range. The trail is more strenuous but rewards you with incredible mountain vistas and a glimpse of traditional Tibetan-influenced villages. Descend to Manang, a historic settlement.6-7 hours17 Km410m170mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Manang - Day 5
Acclimatization Day in Manang
Spend a crucial acclimatization day in Manang. Take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake or the viewpoint above the village for panoramic views. Attend an informative talk on altitude sickness at the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic. Explore the ancient monastery and traditional stone houses of the village.3-4 hours hike5 Km400m400mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Manang - Day 6
Trek Manang to Khangsar (3,745m)
Leave the main Annapurna Circuit and head towards Tilicho Lake. The trail crosses the Marsyangdi River and climbs gradually to Khangsar, the last permanent settlement before Tilicho. This is a shorter day to aid acclimatization, with beautiful views of Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak.3-4 hours8 Km205mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Khangsar - Day 7
Trek Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)
Today's trek involves crossing a landslide-prone area, so caution is required. The trail climbs steeply through arid, barren landscapes with dramatic scree slopes. Reach Tilicho Base Camp by afternoon, where you'll rest and prepare for the ascent to the lake the following day.4-5 hours7 Km405mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse at Tilicho Base Camp - Day 8
Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and Return to Shree Kharka (4,050m)
Start early in the morning for the challenging ascent to Tilicho Lake. The climb is steep and demanding but the reward is spectacular—a stunning turquoise glacial lake framed by towering Himalayan peaks. After spending time at the lake, descend back to base camp and continue to Shree Kharka for the night.7-8 hours16 Km769m869mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Shree Kharka - Day 9
Trek Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,050m)
Rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit trail. The trek takes you through beautiful alpine meadows and past small settlements. Look out for blue sheep and marmots along the way. Yak Kharka is a small settlement with excellent views of the surrounding mountains.4-5 hours10 Km300m300mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Yak Kharka - Day 10
Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)
A short but important day for acclimatization before crossing Thorong La Pass. The trail climbs steadily along the Jarsang Khola. Arrive at Thorong Phedi (meaning 'foot of the pass') by lunchtime and rest for the challenging day ahead. Consider a short hike to High Camp for better acclimatization.3-4 hours7 Km400mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Thorong Phedi - Day 11
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,800m)
The most challenging day of the trek begins before dawn. Climb steeply to Thorong La Pass, one of the world's highest trekking passes, adorned with prayer flags and offering breathtaking Himalayan panoramas. After celebrating, begin the long descent to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site with temples and monasteries.8-9 hours16 Km966m1,616mBreakfastLunchDinnerTeahouse in Muktinath - Day 12
Drive Muktinath to Pokhara (820m)
After a morning visit to the sacred Muktinath Temple, drive down through the Kali Gandaki Valley, the world's deepest gorge. Pass through Jomsom, Marpha (famous for its apples), and Tatopani. Continue by tourist vehicle to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, where you'll enjoy a well-deserved comfortable night's rest.9-10 hours170 Km2,980mBreakfastLunchHotel in Pokhara - Day 13
Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Take a scenic tourist bus back to Kathmandu, following the Trishuli River through terraced hillsides and rural villages. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the afternoon exploring Thamel or shopping for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant.6-7 hours200 Km580mBreakfastDinnerHotel in Kathmandu - Day 14
Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast at the hotel, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. Bid farewell to Nepal with wonderful memories of your Tilicho Lake adventure. We hope to see you again for another Himalayan journey!Breakfast
Included
Included
All airport transfers in a private vehicle --> 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu on B/B basis --> All ground transportation by tourist bus and private jeep --> Teahouse accommodation during the trek --> All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek --> Experienced English-speaking trekking guide --> Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers) --> ACAP permit and TIMS card --> Guide and porter insurance, wages, and meals --> First aid medical kit
Not included
International flights and Nepal visa fees --> Travel and medical insurance --> Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu --> Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging) --> Tips for guide and porter --> Any items not mentioned in inclusions
Good to know
Best Time to Visit
The best seasons for the Tilicho Lake Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable and views are clearest.
Difficulty Level
This is a strenuous high-altitude trek involving long walking days, exposure to altitudes above 5,000m, and a narrow landslide-prone section. Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
Accommodation
Comfortable teahouses along the trail offer basic twin-sharing rooms with shared bathrooms. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations.
Altitude Sickness
Proper acclimatization is essential. The itinerary includes rest days, and our guides are trained to recognize symptoms of AMS.